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Thursday, January 31, 2013

Beitou

There are two distinct sides to Beitou. The original Beitou located around Beitou MRT Station and Xin Beitou (New Beitou), the area around Xin Beitou MRT Station and QinshuiPark that was developed as a hot spring resort during the Japanese era (1895-1945) when Taiwan was part of its colony. Beitou has evolved today to include over thirty resorts. The hot springs have improved to include aroma therapy, massage, acupuncture, hydrotherapy, and excellent cuisine. The mineral waters stream from the numerous geothermal vents that occur naturally in the region and are famous for their health benefits.

Geothermal Valley (地熱谷), also called HellValley, is also another place worth visiting. It is one of the most famous spots in Beitou, a natural sulfur hot spring where water temperatures can reach 100°C. Watching the wind blow the steam around can be quite entrancing.

Here is time lapse like clip I shot of the rising steam. These shots were handheld, so a bit shaky.